WB6 CIF at the Launch of the New SME Policy Index Cycle: Strengthening Regional Businesses for a Competitive Future
WB6 CIF Secretary General, Tatjana Shterjova Dushkovska, delivered a keynote address at the official launch of the OECD’s SME Policy Index for the Western Balkans and Türkiye 2026, reaffirming the commitment of WB6 CIF to fostering a more competitive and resilient business environment in the region.
Addressing an audience of policymakers, business leaders, and international experts, Ms. Shterjova Dushkovska shed light on the critical challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the region. She emphasized the need for adaptive policies, innovative business solutions, and enhanced regional cooperation to navigate the evolving European and global economic landscape.
In the face of significant shifts in global markets and supply chains, she highlighted the importance of the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, a strategic initiative designed to facilitate economic convergence with the EU and strengthen the regional business ecosystem. She also presented key obstacles and recommendations from regional SMEs in trade, quality infrastructure (QI), access to finance, green transition, digitalization, and human capital development, stressing that tackling these issues collectively is essential for unlocking the full potential of SMEs in the region.
Furthermore, Ms. Shterjova Dushkovska underscored that regional cooperation is not only a necessity but an opportunity, enabling SMEs to scale their businesses, attract investments, and integrate more effectively into European and global value chains. She reaffirmed WB6 CIF’s dedication to advocating for policy reforms that create a more business-friendly environment, foster innovation, and drive sustainable economic growth.
As WB6 CIF continues to play a pivotal role in shaping policies that support SMEs, the organization remains committed to ensuring that businesses in the region have the tools, knowledge, and networks they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market.
